Total Knee Replacement

Bones, joints and muscles
1

Four weeks ago, I had a total knee replacement.  I have done well recovering.Five days-walked w/o support.  Nine days-cleared to drive/no pain meds needed.  two weeks-ROM 120 degrees.  From what my PT and doctor say, I am way ahead of the recovery curve.

I am concerned about scarring.  When can I start massaging the scar area to minimize the scar? What should I use, etc...  

2

Hi lisa

Great to hear your recovery is going well.

You can begin massage once the incision is healed. Ask your pt to show you the best method- any moisturiser you have on hand will do-bio oil etc seems to be the go but no need to spend up on expensive products if like most of us you have half used products stored up. Massage every opportunity you get-its great for the blood flow and loosening up the tightness that comes a with tkr.

Stay in the zone and good luck.

3

Thanks. My PT wasn't very helpful actually. My doctor said that any oil or creme can be used but I always get "general" information. I am hoping that someone who has had the surgery can tell me what they used and what they did. Next Summer, I most likely will have my other knee done.

4

I've always used vitamin E oil on the recommendation of my PT. It heals deep inside. I've massaged it in twice a day, rubbing it in well with the thumbs. It softens than in as well as healing.

5

I know a lot of people use specialised creams and lotions for this, but personally, it's never bothered me enough to do that.  18 months after my first TKR, the scar has hardly been noticeable for months.

6

Well done!

It is GREAT things have moved along so well!

I just used a foam roller on my thigh but that wasn't for scar reduction, just my attempt at helping my quads!

7

I am 7 months post op from a Tkr

I use organic coconut oil

I have used it everyday since my incision had healed

My pt showed me how to massage it

You use your thumbs in a crisscross motion over

The scar